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Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie Share Challenges of 2024 Olympics

As the 2024 Olympic Games unfold in Paris, renowned television hosts Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie have opened up about the unique challenges they face while covering the event. The duo, who have been co-anchors on the Today show for five years, expressed their excitement for the Games but also shared the emotional toll of being away from their families during this significant time.

Emotional Toll of Being Away from Family

In a candid interview, both Kotb and Guthrie revealed that the hardest part of covering the Olympics is the emotional distance from their loved ones. Guthrie, who shares two children with her husband, expressed her longing for her kids, stating, “It’s so, so much fun. It’s so beautiful. It’s so exciting that, of course, you wish that your kids were here. You wish that your spouse was here.” She emphasized the importance of family, especially during such a monumental event.

Kotb echoed these sentiments, sharing her experience as a mother of two young daughters. She noted that while they miss their families, they have learned that their children are capable of thriving even when they are away. “It’s also teaching us that kids are fine when we are away for a few days. They are perfectly fine,” Kotb remarked, highlighting the importance of communication through technology like FaceTime.

Memorable Moments at the Olympics

The 2024 Olympics have already provided Kotb and Guthrie with unforgettable experiences. The Opening Ceremony, which featured a stunning performance by Celine Dion, left both anchors in tears. Guthrie described the moment, saying, “We were just a puddle on the floor. That wasn’t the rain. Those were our tears. It was just so beautiful.” Kotb added, “When we heard that first note, we were like, ‘It’s actually happening.'”

Additionally, the presence of numerous celebrities at the Games has added to the excitement. Kotb noted, “We’ve been to plenty of Olympics. I don’t think we’ve ever been to an Olympics with this many celebrities.” The anchors have had the chance to interact with stars like Tom Cruise and Lady Gaga, making their coverage even more thrilling.

Celebrity Encounters and Their Impact

One of the highlights of their Olympic coverage has been the chance to meet various celebrities who are also fans of the Games. Guthrie praised Snoop Dogg, who has been working as a commentator, for his genuine enthusiasm for the athletes. “He’s just been so amazing and enthusiastic and genuine,” she said. Kotb agreed, noting that Snoop’s focus on the athletes rather than himself has made him a perfect fit for the role.

The anchors have enjoyed the camaraderie that comes with being surrounded by fellow fans, stating that the celebrities understand the significance of the event and are there to support the athletes. This shared passion has created a unique atmosphere at the Games, making their coverage even more enjoyable.

Highlighting Team USA’s Success

As they cover the events, Kotb and Guthrie have been particularly excited about Team USA’s performance, especially in women’s artistic gymnastics. The duo celebrated the team’s gold medal win, with Kotb stating, “If you were gonna script the perfect night that was the script. Those girls came out, they were ready and they won gold and they won by a mile.” Guthrie humorously added that she was squeezing Kotb’s hand so hard during the event that it might have caused bruising.

Their enthusiasm for the athletes and the spirit of competition has made their coverage of the Olympics not just a job, but a passion. They have expressed their admiration for the gymnasts and their ability to connect with the audience, making the experience even more special.

Looking Forward to the Future

As the Olympics continue, both Kotb and Guthrie are looking forward to the future, hoping to bring their families to the Games when the time is right. They recognize the importance of balancing their professional commitments with their roles as mothers. “When they get a little bit older and… have a little more independence, we would love to bring our kids to the Olympics,” Guthrie said, reflecting on the potential for future family experiences at such events.

In the meantime, they are committed to delivering exceptional coverage of the Games while cherishing the moments they share with each other and the athletes. Their partnership as co-anchors has proven to be a source of strength and support, allowing them to navigate the challenges of covering the Olympics together.

FAQs

1. What are the main challenges Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie face while covering the Olympics?

The main challenges include being away from their families, managing long hours, and balancing work with personal life.

2. How do Kotb and Guthrie stay connected with their families during the Olympics?

They use technology like FaceTime to communicate with their children and spouses while they are away.

3. What memorable moments have Kotb and Guthrie experienced at the 2024 Olympics?

They have experienced emotional moments, such as Celine Dion’s performance at the Opening Ceremony, and have met numerous celebrities.

4. How do they feel about Team USA’s performance in the Olympics?

Kotb and Guthrie are excited and proud of Team USA’s success, particularly in women’s artistic gymnastics.

5. Do Kotb and Guthrie plan to bring their families to future Olympics?

Yes, they hope to bring their children to the Olympics when they are older and more independent.

6. How has their partnership as co-anchors helped them during the Olympics?

Their partnership provides mutual support and encouragement, allowing them to navigate the challenges of covering the event together.

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